Kankakee Valley REMC — June 2022 Indiana Connection

Kankakee Valley REMC’s

I N D I AN A

CONNECTION

JUNE 2022

Annual report information inside.

Kankakee Valley REMC’s

Painting the

Towns

pages 19-24

LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE TOLD AT A GLANCE

JUNE 2022

from the editor

GIDGET’S GADGET FROM ‘THE DAY’ Fifteen years ago this month, the first version of one of my constant companions — my beloved iPhone — was born. And though now I can’t imagine life without my iPhone, I can certainly remember those years pre-smartphone when phones were used solely for verbal communication!

Even though 19th and 20th century era phones couldn’t take photos, tally your daily number of steps, or provide instantaneous information about anything your heart desires, they were communication game-changers in their time. And in some cases, especially in the mid-century modern times, they were actually part of the home décor.

Case in point: the coveted Princess phone (complete with the convenient light up dial).

This stylish oval shaped phone — perfect for second phone lines (the ultimate luxury!) in bedrooms — was actually initially produced in Indiana. Princess phones came in a number of appealing colors, including — my favorite — the pastel pink version popularized Sally Field’s 1960s TV show “Gidget.”

Though phones from “the day” couldn’t travel in your purse or pocket, they were portable in their own way. You could pick up the phone itself and move it to a comfortable spot of your choice or, if the cord was long enough, cradle the receiver on your shoulder and converse while lounging on the sofa or bed. There were wall-mounted phones in some homes which provided a phone-booth-like aesthetic. A long-enough cord was a must here so you didn’t have to remain standing during long conversations.

While another 1960s show, “Get Smart,” introduced a spy phone cleverly hidden in a shoe (which, of course, only existed then in sitcom reality), in the 1970s and ‘80s, novelty phone styles began appearing en masse. They included the mod doughnut version, the retro candlestick style, the figurine Snoopy or Mickey Mouse phone (for the kid in all of us), and the phone shaped like giant red lips. In my pre-cordless phone days in the early ‘90s, I used a clunky corded phone with touch keys on the receiver which looked ironically similar to the earliest mobile phones I’d use just a few years later.

Although landline phones are still being used, especially in workplaces, the last 15 years have shown us that not only is technology advancing and changing but communication styles are evolving too. Though phones were initially used to “connect” people no matter where they were, today’s phones are actually more a multipurpose device than a conversational tool. In fact, if lovable alien ET were visiting us today he would probably not be phoning home. He’d just send a text of emojis.

EMILY SCHILLING Editor eschilling@indianaec.org

I finally get to realize my dream of chatting on a Princess phone and being just like my idol, Gidget, thanks to the magic of Photoshop!

On the menu: September issue: Recipes using honey, deadline July 1. October issue: Recipes using beer, deadline Aug. 1. If we publish your recipe on our food pages, we’ll send you a $10 gift card.

Giveaway: Suggest a restaurant we should feature in an upcoming Indiana Eats

and you’ll be entered to win a four-quart Koji ice cream maker. For details and to enter, visit indianaconnection.org/talk-to-us/contests.

Three ways to contact us: To send us recipes, photos, event listings, letters and entries for gift drawings, please use the forms on our website indianaconnection.org; email info@indianaconnection.org; or send to Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

VOLUME 71 • NUMBER 12 ISSN 0745-4651 • USPS 262-340 Published monthly by Indiana Electric Cooperatives Indiana Connection is for and about members of Indiana’s locally-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives. It helps consumers use electricity safely and efficiently; understand energy issues; connect with their co-op; and celebrate life in Indiana. Over 304,000 residents and businesses receive the magazine as part of their electric co-op membership. Member’s cost per issue is approximately 32 cents, plus postage.

CONTACT US: 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600 Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606 317-487-2220 info@indianaconnection.org IndianaConnection.org INDIANA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OFFICERS: Randy Kleaving President Steve McMichael Vice President Dr. Richard Leeper Secretary/Treasurer John Gasstrom CEO EDITORIAL STAFF: Emily Schilling Editor Richard George Biever Senior Editor Holly Huffman Communication Support Specialist Ellie Schuler Senior Digital and Layout Design Specialist Lauren Carman Communication Coordinator Mandy Barth Vice President of Communication ADVERTISING: American MainStreet Publications Cheryl Solomon, local ad representative; 512-441-5200; amp.coop Crosshair Media 502-216-8537; crosshairmedia.net Paid advertisements are not endorsements by any electric cooperative or this publication.

UNSOLICITED MATERIAL: Indiana Connection does not use unsolicited freelance manuscripts or photographs and assumes no responsibility for the safe‑keeping or return of unsolicited material.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $12 for individuals not subscribing through participating REMCs/RECs. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you receive Indiana Connection through your electric co-op membership, report address changes to your local co-op.

POSTAGE: Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Indiana, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to: Indiana Connection, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1600, Indianapolis, IN 46240-4606.

Include key number.

No portion of Indiana Connection may be reproduced without permission of the editor.

JUNE 2022

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contents

JUNE

10

14

energy

county

03 FROM THE EDITOR

12 INSIGHTS

05 CO-OP NEWS Energy news and information from your electric cooperative.

14 COUNTY OF THE MONTH Spotlighting Lawrence

10 ENERGY Power out? Time for your co-op to go to work.

County.

16 FOOD Salad Days: Celebrate summertime with these recipes from readers.

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29

cover story 19 COVER STORY Painting the Towns: Local history and culture told at a glance.

25 SAFETY Familiarize yourself with your home’s electrical system.

26 DIY Open the door to

travel

28 H OOSIER ENERGY/ WABASH VALLEY NEWS 29 TRAVEL Roaring on the river at the Madison Regatta. (Not in all editions.)

30 PROFILE Chad Hinesley: Climbing the cooperative ladder.

(Not in all editions.)

a great looking entry.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Indiana Connection

On the cover Mural artist Kelsey Montague seemingly releases a profusion of butterflies to the delight of Paul Satchwill. The international muralist created two murals in Batesville in 2019. Satchwill is a board member of the Batesville Area Arts Council, one of the driving forces behind the murals made possible through civic organizations and donations.

PHOTO BY ANNE RAVER, SUBMITTED BY PAUL SATCHWILL

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JUNE 2022

co-op news LET TER TO THE MEMBERSHIP www.kvremc.com CONTACT US Toll Free: 800-552-2622 Local: 219-733-2511 OFFICE HOURS 7:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Central Time Monday-Friday STREET ADDRESS 8642 W. U.S. Highway 30 Wanatah, IN 46390 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 157, Wanatah, IN 46390 EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGES To report a power outage, please call 800-552-2622.

We are available to serve you 24 hours a day. When calling, please provide the name in which your account is listed. Also, please be sure to check your fuses or breakers.

KANKAKEE VALLEY REMC STAFF Scott Sears, Chief Executive Officer Alissa Tucker, Executive Assistant Angie Swanson, Office Manager Amanda Steeb, Communications and Marketing Director Dave Howell, Purchasing and Facilities Manager Scott Hanson, Director of Operations

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/KVREMC

MAKING SMART TECHNOLOGY DECISIONS

TO ENHANCE YOUR SERVICE

D E A R M E M B E R- C O N S U M E R : Kankakee Valley REMC’s leadership is constantly learning about and testing new technologies to serve you better. We don’t believe in adding technology just because it’s available.

Instead, we want to ensure our choices deliver you greater control, efficiency, comfort, and reliability.

We evaluated business practices, programs, and services throughout this past year to ensure we prioritize you. After listening to you and learning about your priorities and needs, we invested in SmartHub. This memberfocused technology allows you to quickly and easily access information about your electric service. This technology has helped us exceed your expectations about your electric cooperative.

We also continued deploying fiber optics between our headquarters and our 10 distribution substations. By having enhanced communications with our distribution facilities, the fiber network will allow us to identify issues quickly. We also continue to leverage our infrastructure as we work to expand broadband opportunities in our communities.

Focusing on our member-consumers’ needs today and in the future remains a high priority. We recognize our membership wants and needs the latest technology in their homes and businesses. Upgrades to our

substations are often required to meet the growing electrical demands.

This year, to increase capacity, we upgraded the infrastructure at four of our 10 substations. These upgrades will allow your co-op to implement smart grid projects to help modernize our portion of the electrical grid.

Engaging in emerging technologies will help your cooperative move forward.

We’re also deploying a new generation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters. Since our system will be in constant communication with all meters, we can spot and pinpoint issues more quickly.

Plus, having access to real-time data will give you a clearer picture of your energy use and allow us to explore new pricing options to reward efficient use of energy.

Technology is exciting but, more importantly, it’s all designed to enhance and give you greater control over your electric service. This past year has just been the beginning of exciting things we hope to offer to our member-consumers. Finding ways to meet your needs is what cooperatives have done since the beginning and we will continue to do.

MIKE YANKAUSKAS

BOARD PRESIDENT

SCOTT SEARS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER JUNE 2022

5

SECRETARYTREASURER REPORT As 2021 returned some normalcy to operations, the financial strength of the cooperative also remained strong

SOURCES AND USES OF CASH MARGINS FOR THE YEAR ENDING DEC. 31, 2021 Sources of Cash Sales to Members

for our member-consumers. Your cooperative invested

Borrowings from RUS/CFC (lenders)

an increased amount from prior years in the electric

New Membership Fees & Consumer Deposits

plant infrastructure needed to ensure reliable service,

Total Sources of Cash

extending or replacing over $8.5 million worth of new plant. The total assets held by the REMC totaled $82 million, with almost 90% of those assets held being the utility plant needed for service. The cash position was the only other increase of significance, rising by $1.5

Payments to Power Supplier & Vendor New Construction & Replacement of Utility Plant Repayment of Long-Term Debt Total Uses of Cash

expended on additional plant in the future.

New (Decrease) or Increase in cash

increased borrowings to spread the cost of the additions over the member-consumers who will use the new plant and avoid rate pressure. As of the end of the year, member-owned equity in the cooperative totaled $53 million. In addition, $377,204 worth of that patronage equity was returned to the member-consumers.

The revenue collected by KV REMC was steady

6,000,000 12,180 $43,455,359

Uses of Cash

million from the prior year due to borrowings that will be The plant investment was made primarily with the

$37,443,179

$31,484,737 8,526,635 1,928,089 $41,939,461

1,515,898

Kankakee Valley REMC has included in this report the financial statements from the year ended Dec. 31, 2021.

These financial statements are reported to the REMC’s lenders, as well as our members. Kankakee Valley REMC also has an annual audit performed by London Witte Group, LLC, Certified Public Accounts, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. The audit reports are on file at the REMC office and available for inspection within 120 days after the audit period ends.

compared to the prior year and increased with the increased cost of power purchased. Operating expenses, however, decreased by $600,000 in 2021, helping offset the increase in the cost of power for all memberconsumers. Margins did not see much fluctuation, totaling $3.5 million in the current year and $3.3 million in the prior.

Your cooperative rates only collect the funds necessary to serve you. We collected $37.4 million to operate the utility during the year. The REMC expended $33 million to purchase the power and cover costs to operate the utility.

The remainder was used for the necessary investment in the plant to ensure we deliver the service you have grown to expect.

The financial position shows strong member-consumer investment value while also showing controlled costs and continued investment in the items necessary to deliver our member-consumers the service they deserve.

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JUNE 2022

The quiz corner winners for May are Gerald Frump-Valparaiso ($75), Marvin MusickHebron ($50) and Rose Taylor-Westville ($25).

Watch for the next Quiz Corner questions in the July magazine.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS 2020

2021

$36,764,224

$37,443,179

$23,566,910

$24,944,579

Operations

1,985,454

1,968,481

Maintenance

2,443,363

1,927,652

Customer Accounts & Collections

794,164

785,025

Customer Service & Informational Expense

376,203

416,414

3,008,729

2,893,791

$32,174,823

$32,935,942

OPERATING REVENUE Operating Expenses Purchased Power

Administrative & General Total Cost of Operating Expenses Other Deductions Depreciation

COMPARATIVE BALANCE SHEET 2020

2021

Total Utility Plant

$83,564,758

$92,091,393

Less Reserve for Depreciation

32,038,177

33,067,112

Net Utility Plant

51,526,581

59,024,281

Other Property & Investments

14,234,897

12,951,114

Cash & Temporary Investments

3,301,985

4,817,883

2,792,987

3,132,833

614,089

1,500,477

Assets & Other Debits

$2,296,330

$2,417,625

Tax

530,005

537,014

Interest and Other

839,591

928,532

$3,665,926

$3,883,171

$35,840,749

$36,819,113

$923,475

$624,066

Accounts Receivable Materials & Supplies

$402,492

$273,069

Pre-Payments

65,789

63,958

$1,963,382

$2,598,006

$3,289,349

$3,495,141

Other Current & Accrued Assets

24,784

24,573

Deferred Debits

1,925,304

435,592

Total Assets & Other Debits

74,486,416

81,950,711

Membership Fees

651,750

656,180

Patronage Capital

46,760,266

48,731,431

Total Cost of Other Deductions Total Cost of Electric Service Operating Margins Non-Operating Margins Other Capital Credits & Patronage Dividends

Patronage Capital or Margins

2021 OPERATING EXPENSES ADMINISTRATIVE & GENERAL CUSTOMER SERVICE & INFORMATIONAL EXPENSES

$2,893,791

General Funds

Liabilities & Other Credits

$416,414

Other Margins & Equities

3,446,842

3,652,634

CUSTOMER ACCOUNTS & COLLECTIONS

Long-Term Debt — RUS

11,950,503

11,726,065

6,857,983

12,347,138

1,846,199

2,028,577

939,256

947,006

1,648,272

1,545,249

385,345

316,431

$74,486,416

$81,950,711

$785,025

Long-Term Debt — Other Notes & Accounts Payable

MAINTENANCE

Consumer Deposits

$1,927,652

Other Current & Accrued Liabilities Deferred Credits

OPERATIONS

Total Liabilities & Other Credits

$1,968,481

PURCHASED POWER

$24,944,579

JUNE 2022

7

Right-of-way spraying to begin If you prefer to maintain the right-of-way adjacent to your land in some other fashion, such as mowing, please follow these instructions: 1. Call The Daltons at 574-267-7511 with your questions about or problems with this right-of-way maintenance operation.

2. Post a sign on the rightof-way at each end of your property that reads “NO SPRAYING.” Make sure it’s legible and visible from the roadway.

3. Make sure brush is removed within the site by June 27 and the site continues to be maintained.

Brush upkeep and tree trimming does more than keep your yard looking nice, it’s a vital part to keeping your power flowing efficiently and safely! We know that this kind of maintenance can be a dangerous business. That’s why we contract trained, certified vegetation control specialists to take care of summer foliage that may pose a risk to the functionality of your electricity.

The Daltons, Inc., will be performing upkeep as part of our right-of-way maintenance spraying program. Its focus will be on brush and small vegetation control in the areas shown on the system map. This work has been certified by the Indiana State Chemist and all herbicides used will be EPA-approved. During this spray operation, The Daltons will take care to avoid sensitive areas (such as front yards, tree plantations, ornamental plantings, crops, gardens, lakes and streams) adjacent to the right-ofway. Contract crews will be working in the following areas: • Starke County: Jackson, Center, Railroad, Washington, North Bend, California, Oregon, Davis and Wayne townships.

• All KV REMC service locations in Pulaski and Marshall counties.

DEADLINE QUICKLY APPROACHING

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JUNE 2022

ADVERTISEMENT

energy

The last time you thought about your electricity provider may have been when power suddenly went out. Fortunately, seconds later, your local electric co-op already was at work restoring service.

Power out?

Time for your co-op to go to work BY

Darrell Marks

Your local electric co-op works around the clock 24 hours every day, 365 days each year, to ensure safe, reliable delivery of affordable electricity. The organization also works with Wabash Valley Power Alliance or Hoosier Energy, the generation and transmission cooperatives that generate and deliver power to distribution co-ops in Indiana. Your co-op is even part of a network of more than 900 consumer-owned not-for-profit electric cooperatives that work with local, state, regional and even federal agencies that monitor and operate the nation’s energy grid (some agencies even work across North America!).

Energy Services Specialist | Kankakee Valley REMC

The complex transmission system that delivers electricity to homes and businesses in your community includes:

HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION LINES: The transmission towers and cables that carry large amounts of highvoltage electricity from generating plants to local and regional distribution substations.

DISTRIBUTION SUBSTATIONS: Electrical facilities that contain equipment for controlling flow of electricity from where it is generated to those using it. Transmission line voltages are reduced to levels that are carried along distribution lines. Each substation can serve thousands of memberconsumers of a local electric cooperative.

MAIN DISTRIBUTION LINES: Main distribution lines carry the electricity to populated areas, including businesses and neighborhoods, in a community.

TAP LINES:

These lines carry power to transformers and are connected to poles outside of homes and businesses.

SERVICE LINES TO INDIVIDUAL HOMES: A service line from a nearby transformer delivers electricity to individual buildings, where it is then used by appliances, devices and 10systems.

JUNE 2022

Your local electric co-op’s employees, from the CEO to linemen, member service reps and more, are dedicated to ensuring your community has the reliable electricity needed to power your day.

ADVERTISEMENT

insights

Letter

TO THE EDITOR NAMED AFTER HANK AARON My full name is Jeffrey Aaron Manes. I turned 65 on April 8 this year. My mother chose my middle name because she liked the way it sounded when reading about the up-andcoming Henry Aaron back in 1957.

Hammerin’ Hank surpassed the Bambino on my 17th birthday.

Several years later, at a baseball card show in Valparaiso, I met Hank and told him I was named after him. Then, I showed him my driver’s license. A big smile appeared on Hank’s face when he saw that I was born on April 8.

Jeff Manes, Hebron, Indiana

MARKETPLACE Our Marketplace offers maximum exposure for your business or organization at a minimal cost.

Please contact Cheryl Solomon, 847-749-4875 or cheryl@amp.coop, for other small business advertising opportunities in Indiana Connection. a

ipshewan Sh e s t. 1 9 2 2

Auction & Flea Market

SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET OPEN NOW THROUGH SEPTEMBER 28 Midwest’s Largest Flea Market Every Tuesday & Wednesday 8 am – 4 pm; Rain or Shine Weekly Antique Auction Every Wednesday, Year-Round ShipshewanaFleaMarket.com

WINNERS SELECTED FOR 2 5TH ANNI VE RSARY CALE NDAR Twenty-six student artists were selected as first place and honorable mention winners in the annual art contest sponsored by Indiana’s electric cooperatives. Their artworks will illustrate the cover and inside pages of the 2023 edition of the Cooperative Calendar of Student Art. The popular project celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

The calendar will be printed this fall and will be distributed statewide by participating electric cooperatives as well as Indiana Connection.

JUNE 2022

• First Grade — Arabella White, Medora • Second Grade — Alexander DeSchamp, Jasper

Andrew Zink, a home-schooled student from Winona Lake who recently completed his junior year, was selected as “Artist of the Year.” His “Best of Show” drawing paid homage to his family’s traditional Thanksgiving dinner apple pie dessert.

• Third Grade — Flynn Cissell, Borden

Students who enter the art contest are asked to create artworks to illustrate the month that corresponds numerically with their grade at the time they enter the contest.

Kindergartners have carte blanche when creating artwork for the calendar’s cover.

• 11th Grade — Andrew Zink, Winona Lake

Indiana electric cooperatives began the contest in 1998 to recognize and encourage student artists. In the 25 years since, some 96,464 pieces of art have been created and entered in the art contest.

• Fourth Grade — Erika Batz, Williams

To view the winning artworks, visit IndianaConnection.org and follow the links.

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GRADE DIVISION WINNERS • Kindergarten — Sophia Lueken, Jasper

• Fourth Grade — Kaylin Fuller, Charlestown • Fifth Grade — Lydia Kelley, Charlestown • Sixth Grade — Cali Ann Fox, Seymour • Seventh Grade — Adilynn Meyers, Decatur • Eighth Grade — Ellie Hilbert, Noblesville • Ninth Grade — Bailey Hering, Union Mills • 10th Grade — Alivia Tucker, South Whitley • 12th Grade — Heidi Blattert, Mitchell • Best of Show — Andrew Zink, Winona Lake HONORABLE MENTION WINNERS • Kindergarten — Mira Smith, Fairland • First Grade — Samuel Smith, Churubusco • Second Grade — Brantly Roller, Burnettsville • Third Grade — Elizabeth Avis, Elizabeth • Fifth Grade — Elizabeth Blattert, Mitchell • Sixth Grade — Nandini Amol Kondhare, Columbus • Seventh Grade — Sophie Yang, Brownsburg • Eighth Grade — Ashelyn Evans, Medaryville • Ninth Grade — Sarah Stonerock, Greenfield • 10th Grade — Isabella Fox, North Vernon • 11th Grade — Ellie Sims, Paoli • 12th Grade — Addy Knakiewicz, Morocco

county feature

Lawrence County Wonderful contrasts — between the past and future; between the defined bedrock of Earth and the deep bluesky weightless vastness of space — are celebrated in Lawrence County.

Situated in the heart of Indiana’s famed limestone belt, the county is known worldwide for the stone quarried from beneath its soil. Bedford, the county seat, is known as the “Limestone Capital of the World.” The large quarries in the area produced limestone for the Empire State Building and The Pentagon.

Meanwhile, the county also boasts of its connection to the stars. Three astronauts hail from Lawrence County.

The first was Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom who was born and raised in Mitchell in southern Lawrence County.

A World War II veteran, Korean War fighter pilot and Air Force test pilot, Grissom was one of the original “Mercury Seven,” the first corps of astronauts NASA named in 1959.

Grissom was the second American to fly in space in July 1961. He was the first astronaut to fly two missions as pilot on Gemini 3 and was selected to be the first to fly three missions as commander of the ill-fated Apollo 1.

He and crewmen Ed White and Roger B. Chaffee died Jan. 27, 1967, when an electrical fire broke out in their capsule during pre-launch testing at Cape Kennedy, Florida.

The two other astronauts from Lawrence County are Charles Walker and Kenneth Bowersox. Walker, born and raised in Oolitic, was an engineer and astronaut who flew on three Space Shuttle missions in 1984 and 1985. As a payload specialist for the McDonnell Douglas Corporation, Walker was the first non-government individual to fly in space. Though born in Virginia, Bowersox considers Bedford as his

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JUNE 2022

The contrasts of Lawrence County can be seen in Mitchell’s memorial to hometown hero pioneering astronaut Gus Grissom. The limestone replica of his Gemini 3 rocket and spacecraft is silhouetted against our nearest star and the deep blue heavens he helped open.

FI LE P HO TO BY RI CHARD G . BI E V E R

hometown. He flew five Space Shuttle missions and had an extended stay aboard the International Space Station.

Spring Mill State Park, just east of Mitchell, puts these contrasts between the natural and cultural worlds, the past and the future in one spot. The park is among the most beautiful and popular in the state.

Water flowing from several springs led to the founding of an industrial village there in the early 1800s.

Pioneer entrepreneurs took advantage of a constant water source that never froze, using it to power several gristmills, a wool mill, a saw mill, and a distillery.

The restored Pioneer Village contains 20 historic buildings to explore. The centerpiece is a threestory limestone gristmill, built in 1817, that still grinds cornmeal. Heritage interpreters portray the year 1863 and demonstrate period crafts.

Meanwhile, the park also pays tribute to Grissom at the Grissom Memorial just inside the park’s gates. The memorial tells the story of Grissom’s life and his contributions to the space program through a short video. Exhibits include Grissom’s space suit, the Gemini 3 Molly Brown spacecraft, and artifacts from his personal and professional life.

The park also has a popular inn and campground. For more info, visit: www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parkslakes/spring-mill-state-park.

County Facts FOUNDED: 1818 NAMED FOR: James Lawrence, an officer of the U.S. Navy who died in battle during the War of 1812. He is probably best known today for his last words, “Don’t give up the ship!”

POPULATION: 45,000 COUNTY SEAT: Bedford INDIANA COUNTY NUMBER: 47

food

Salad Days CELEBRATE SUMMERTIME WITH THESE RECIPES FROM READERS

APPLESTRAWBERRYSPINACH SALAD

SALAD: I lb. fresh spinach, torn

Karen L. Owen Rising Sun, Indiana

2 cups chopped unpeeled Granny Smith apples ¾ cup fresh bean sprouts (canned may be substituted but chill first) ½ cup sliced strawberries ¼ cup crumbled cooked bacon

In a large bowl, combine salad ingredients. Put dressing ingredients in a jar and shake.

Just before serving, pour dressing over salad.

Cook’s note:

DRESSING: ½ cup vegetable oil ⅓ cup white wine vinegar 1 small onion, grated ½ cup sugar 2 t. Worcestershire sauce 2 t. salt

CAULIFLOWER AND BROCCOLI SALAD Glenda Sensenig Cutler, Indiana

F O O D P R E PA R E D B Y HO L LY H U F F MA N A N D EMILY S C H ILLIN G P HO TOS BY R IC H AR D G. B IEV E R

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JUNE 2022

This salad does not refrigerate well. I prepare vegetables, fruit and bacon and place in separate containers and leave the dressing in the jar. Fix individual salads as desired.

SALAD:

DRESSING:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut up

1 cup mayonnaise

1 small head of broccoli, cut up

¼ cup sugar

8 slices of bacon, fried and crumbled

2 T. vinegar

1 small onion, chopped (optional)

Combine and pour over vegetables.

Refrigerate before serving.

Mix together.

food

COLORIFIC SALAD Eleanor Watkins Bourbon, Indiana

SALAD: 2 heads Romaine lettuce, chopped 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 2 chopped red pepper 1 cup pecans 1 cup dried cranberries 1 cup honey roasted sesame sticks ½ purple onion, thinly sliced (optional) Mix together in a large bowl.

DRESSING: 1 cup sugar ⅓ cup vinegar

RANCH PASTA SALAD

1 t. salt ½ t. pepper

Kylie Olson St. Paul, Indiana

1 T. onion flakes 1 T. mustard

1 pkg. ranch dressing mix 1 cup buttermilk 1 cup mayonnaise 2 cups pasta shells 8 oz. sharp Cheddar cheese, cut in small cubes 1 cup frozen peas, thawed 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk together the ranch dressing mix, buttermilk and mayonnaise.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes.

Cook pasta according to box directions. Drain and cool. Add cooked pasta, cheese, peas and bacon to a large serving bowl.

Toss together with ranch dressing, beginning with ½ cup, adding more as desired. Season with salt and pepper.

½ cup oil ¼ cup water 2 T. mayonnaise Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or place in a jar and shake well. Pour dressing over salad and mix lightly just before serving.

JUNE 2022

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WE WA N

Indiana eats

TT

O KNOW

What’s your favorite Indiana restaurant?

FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS, WE’VE SPOTLIGHTED EATERIES OF ALL KINDS FROM ALL OVER THE STATE IN OUR INDIANA EATS FEATURE. We’ve focused on pizzerias, bakeries, diners, barbecue joints, fine dining establishments and so much more.

As we begin year six of Indiana Eats, we’d like to hear your suggestions of restaurants we should feature in the future. Turn to page 3 for information on how to contact us. Tell us what your favorite restaurant is and why it should be featured in Indiana Eats. Contact us by June 30 for a chance to win a Koji four-quart ice cream maker.

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JUNE 2022

safety

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR HOME’S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM A lot of people won’t plug in their new TV or toaster without reading the instruction book at least once. But many will move into a new home without understanding the electrical system that makes everything work. Would you know how to trip the main circuit if someone was being shocked at an outlet somewhere?

“Understanding how your home’s electrical system functions is important not only to keep it properly maintained, but for your safety if a problem arises,” said John Gasstrom, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “We ask all of our consumers to familiarize themselves with this equipment that keeps their homes running smoothly.”

The electric cooperative handles the line portion of a consumer’s service, which includes everything up to and including the meter on the side of the house.

Everything beyond that point is called the “load side.” Everything on the load side is the consumer’s responsibility.

The meter measures the amount of electricity your home uses and determines your bill each month. Tampering with it is both extremely dangerous and illegal.

You’ll find your electrical service panel inside your home. It keeps everything inside running. The service panel sends electricity to the light switches, outlets and appliances. If your electricity short circuits or an overload shuts down power, your service panel is where you will go to restore the flow.

Circuit breakers help your home’s electrical system from overloading, thus preventing an electrical fire. (Homes built before 1965 may still use fuses.) The main breaker will cut all power to the home, and the individual circuit breakers administer power to individual parts of the home. If you look in your service panel, all of the circuits and what they power should be labeled. A couple times a year, try turning each breaker on and off. This helps familiarize you with each component of the box and will keep them from getting stuck.

Homeowners should make sure no circuits are overloaded. A general rule when setting up your breakers is to have only one big ticket item on a circuit.

That means you would not put your refrigerator and washing machine on the same circuit. If your circuits frequently overload, it may be time to contact an electrician to add more circuits to your service panel.

ELECTRIC LINGO When you call an electrician to assist you with a problem, it’s helpful to know the lingo.

Here are a few electrical terms to know: ELECTRICAL SERVICE PANEL: Distributes electricity to switches, outlets and appliances. This is where you can restore the flow to an overloaded circuit or shut down the power to the circuit.

FUSES: Safety devices used to protect individual circuits installed in homes before 1965. Each time a fuse is blown it must be replaced.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS: Standard safety devices used to protect individual circuits.

When a circuit is “tripped,” it just has to be manually reset to resume operating.

ARC FAULT: A dangerous electrical problem caused by damaged, overheated or stressed electrical wiring or devices.

ARC FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTORS (AFCIs): AFCIs are protective devices that replace standard circuit breakers in the electric service panel. AFCIs provide enhanced protection against additional fire hazards known as arc faults.

TAMPER RESISTANT RECEPTACLE (TRR): A wall outlet that features an internal shutter mechanism.

JUNE 2022

25

do-it-yourself

DOES YOUR FRONT DOOR NEED A REFRESH?

Open the door

a great looking to

ENTRY

With your yard’s spring cleanup behind you, it’s a great time to focus on your home’s front entrance. After all, it’s the first thing people notice as they approach your home.

Whether it’s an expansive area for entertaining or just a simple piece of concrete, there are lots of ways to spruce it up without breaking the bank. Simple DIY touches (or touch ups) to your entryway will add warmth and character that are inviting and amp up curb appeal.

26

JUNE 2022

START FRESH First things first: Do an all-over cleanup of the walkways leading up to the front door. Use a stiff bristle broom to sweep the front porch and recessed alcoves of leftover autumn leaves, wayward mulch, and other debris. Clear out the corners and areas around the porch

do-it-yourself light where cobwebs and

seals around the door’s

numbers or add a snazzy

an eye-catching way to

dead bugs collect. Give

opening and replace

new letterbox. Finally,

welcome guests. Or try

the cement slab or paver

ones that are dried out

add a new doormat that

more substantial rocking

stones a good power

and cracked. Make sure

welcomes guests inside,

chairs or a porch swing

wash with eco-friendly

the door jam will properly

but leaves dirt and debris

for added comfort and

cleaning agents. Scrub

accommodate your new

outside.

relaxation. Small side

dirt and grime from your

door’s locks and strike

storm door, then remove

plates.

Outdated hardware on

BLOCK EYES AND THE ELEMENTS

your door can age your

Consider installing an

home’s entry, so check out

awning over your front

the newest finishes and

door. They protect

styles. Then, carry this

your door’s paint from

new look through to your

direct sun and keep the

porch lights, too. Today’s

entryway dry on rainy

energy-efficient fixtures

days. Freshen up an

have many options, such

existing awning with an

as seasonal bulb colors,

outdoor fabric cleaner or

UPDATE AND ACCESSORIZE

motion sensors, or smart

replace a tattered one

technology for added

with new fabric. Cleverly

security. Add a subtle

placed vertical planters

If your front door has seen

glow nearby with a few

or hanging baskets full

better days, a refresh

solar landscape lights or a

of bright blooms add

is in order. Remove old

string of outdoor Edison-

pops of color and a bit of

paint with a paint stripping

style bulbs.

privacy. If your porch has

screens and spray them out with a hose and soap. Clean both doors’ hardware with a mild, finish-friendly cleaner.

Then wipe down inserts, transoms, and sidelights with a good glass cleaner that leaves them sparkling.

solvent, then fill in small scratches or gouges with a spackle made for your type of door. Apply a fresh coat of primer and several coats of door paint in a bold new color.

If new paint isn’t enough, consider replacing your old door with a heavier core door with enhanced insulation. Inspect the

Replace an old builder’s grade doorbell with a modern style, or install a Ring doorbell that lets you see and speak to visitors. Add pizzazz with a decorative door knocker, or install a permanent or moveable door hanger for wreaths and seasonal décor. Replace old house

by

weight-bearing columns,

tables keep beverages handy, and a few outdoor pillows complete the look.

A resin wicker storage bench or deck box offers additional seating and a dry place for package deliveries. Now sit back and enjoy the summer nights from your newly updated and welcoming front porch.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL DO IT BEST STORE OR DOITBEST.COM

try outdoor curtains or a

for thousands of

lattice wall with plants or

the best home

ivy for added privacy that

improvement

helps block the wind.

products,

HAVE A SEAT

including

If space allows, add some weather-resistant

supplies to refresh your

seating to your front

home’s front

porch. Brightly colored

entrance.

Adirondack chairs are

Dustin Reynolds and Shannon Morrow

Dustin Reynolds and Shannon Morrow are part of the leadership team at Tweedy Lumber & Hardware in Rushville. They’re member-owners of Do it Best, a Fort Wayne-based cooperative of thousands of hardware stores, home centers and lumberyards throughout the U.S. and around the world.

(This article is for informational purposes only. Indiana Connection and Do it Best Corp. assume no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, or for injuries, property damage, or the outcome of any project.)

JUNE 2022

27

Wabash Valley Power news

M A K E YOUR I M PACT !

Attend Your Co-op’s Annual Meeting As people plan in-person events following the pandemicinduced isolation the past two years, some are circling calendar dates for a familiar favorite — from their electric cooperative.

Many electric co-ops are planning their annual meetings following canceled, scaled down, or virtual events during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some co-ops have returned to hosting in-person member events, while others have scheduled virtual meetings this year. Whether in-person or virtually, you can receive several benefits from attending your co-op’s annual meeting.

MEET. EAT! BE ENTERTAINED: If your electric co-op hosts an inperson event, it can be a great chance to meet and catch up with friends and neighbors. Annual meetings are community events, which means everyone is welcome. They likely will offer some of the best food around, and there are often family-friendly games and activities.

LEARN: No matter your age, you should learn something new every day — and your co-op’s annual meeting will help you reach that goal! You will learn about your electric co-op’s accomplishments over the past year, as well as future opportunities and potential challenges. You also can learn more about the programs that your co-op offers to benefit families and businesses.

WIN! Many electric co-ops offer bill credits or prizes for participating in their annual meeting. Register and vote when you arrive, stay for the meeting, and you may be eligible to win. You don’t want to miss it!

VOTE: The annual meeting is your chance to have a direct impact on how your electric co-op is governed.

You can vote for members running for positions on your co-op’s board of directors. The board creates policies that directly impact you and all co-op members. Democratic participation is part of the foundational bedrock of all cooperatives, and voting is one of the cooperative principles!

As a member of an electric co-op, you also are part owner. And that means that your co-op’s annual meeting was made for you! Many annual meetings feel like a casual gathering with friends and neighbors that include food, family-friendly games and activities with a brief meeting involved. Even virtual meetings feel like they are sessions for catching up with neighbors. Plan to participate in your co-op’s annual event and have a say in how your co-op operates.

28

JUNE 2022

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS OF THE KANKAKEE VALLEY RURAL ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP CORPORATION, INC. AUG. 26, 2021 The 2021 Annual Meeting of the membership of the

The preliminary report, once made available, showed

Kankakee Valley Rural Electric Membership Corporation

a quorum was reached during the online and vote by

was held at the Porter County Expo Center in Valparaiso,

mail balloting. Moreover, 528 member-consumers also

Porter County, Indiana, on the 26th day of August 2021.

appeared in person at the annual meeting. Bylaw Art. IV

A catered meal was served to the members beginning

Sec. 4(d).

at 4:30 p.m. CST by REMC employees and board members. The Van Dells played on the outdoor stage beginning at 5:00 p.m. The business meeting began at 7:30 p.m. CST, pursuant to notice provided to each member of the cooperative. The business meeting also included the announcement of election results, honorifics for retiring board members, Otto Werner and Sue Bachert, and prizes as awarded.

A copy of the proof of mailing of the secretary’s Affidavit of Mailing of Notice of Annual Meeting is appended as EXHIBIT A, at the end of these minutes and was included in the member program distributed to each

The membership had been advised during the early voting period and at the Annual Meeting that there were three directors’ seats up for election for terms of three years each or until their successor shall be duly elected and qualified. The candidates were selected by obtaining nominations by petition pursuant to the bylaws of the cooperative.

All member-consumers had been given instructions to carry out the membership voting. Voting could be accomplished online, by mail and in person at the Annual Meeting.

member who appeared and registered at the meeting.

In accordance with Bylaw Art. IV the following candidates

It was also available in the August Indiana Connection

were nominated for election by petition in Districts 3 & 5

magazine and posted to the cooperative website.

and At-Large (7).

The business meeting opened, and the first matter of

District 3

business was the consideration of the notice of the

William Bohling

meeting. The reading of the Notice of the Meeting

Kathy Grott

to Members as provided in Bylaw Art. III Sec. 3, was

Jessica Linscott

waived, and dispensed with after a motion duly made

District 5

and seconded carried on a unanimous vote. The next item on the agenda was the reading of the minutes of the 2020 Annual Meeting. On motion duly made and seconded, the membership resolved to waive reading of the minutes. Then, on motion duly made and seconded

Katrina Harper (unopposed) At-Large (7) Michael Collins David Janney

the minutes of the 2020 Annual Meeting were approved

Jim Polarek

as printed in the program, on vote.

Due to an amendment to Bylaw Art. IV Sec. 4(d), Katrina

This was the third year that the board approved early

Harper, by virtue of her being unopposed, was elected

voting which was available by mail or online. The amendment to the enabling law provides a person who intended their vote be counted at the annual meeting, are also counted for purposes of a quorum.

by the membership on voice vote. On motion duly made and seconded, Katrina Harper was duly elected to the position of director of District 5 for the ensuing three years.

JUNE 2022

29

Prior to the start of the business meeting Attorney Krsak

on the board of directors for the At-Large District (7) for

called the member-consumers appointed to serve as

the ensuing three years or until their successors have

election inspectors to gather and begin the count of the

been elected and qualified. The results of the election

votes and certify the election. The member-consumers

to the board for Districts 3 & 5 and the At-Large District

appointed to serve as election inspectors were Edward

were duly certified by the election inspectors and the

Marks and Enrique Villalobos.

prevailing candidates are as reported above.

The election inspectors, aided by KVREMC employees,

The Certificate of Election Inspectors is available to

counted the votes cast for the election for the District 3

member-consumers upon request at the Kankakee

position where William Bohling, Kathy Grott and Jessica

Valley REMC office.

Linscott were on the ballot by virtue of their nomination.

Ballots were counted and added to the pre-meeting voting and the total results showed: William Bohling with 1,489 votes, Kathy Grott with 600 votes and Jessica

CEO Sears announced prize winners which included anyone whose registration card was selected regardless of whether or not the member was present at the time of the drawing.

Linscott with 293 votes. Thus, Mr. Bohling was duly elected director on the board of directors for District 3 for

The chairman called for any other business or

the ensuing three years or until their successors have

new business to be brought to the attention of the

been elected and qualified. The election inspectors,

membership; there being none, the meeting was duly

aided by KVREMC employees, counted the votes cast

adjourned.

for the election for the At-Large (7) position where

ATTEST:

Michael Collins, David Janney and Jim Polarek were on the ballot by virtue of their nomination. Ballots were

William Bohling, Secretary of the Board

counted and added to the premeeting voting and the

Michael Yankauskas, Board President

total results showed: Michael Collins with 370 votes,

The foregoing proceedings were held August 26th, 2021,

David Janney with 1,358 votes and Jim Polarek with 644 votes. Thus, Mr. Janney was duly elected director

at the Porter County Expo Center, Valparaiso, IN, Porter County, IN.

EXHIBIT A

Secretary’s Affidavit of Mailing of the Notice of the 2021 Annual Meeting State of Indiana, County of LaPorte I, Susan Bachert, being first duly sworn, upon her oath deposes and says: That I am the duly elected and qualified Secretary of the Kankakee Valley Rural Electric Membership Corporation, hereinafter called the Cooperative.

That on the 23rd day of July 2021, I had mailed to each member-consumer of the Cooperative, to the addresses as they appear on the records of the Cooperative, a notice of the annual meeting of the member-consumers to be held on August 26, 2021, by depositing such notice with postage prepaid thereon and addressed as aforesaid in the United States mail.

The total number of member-consumers receiving notice of annual meeting on said date was 18,699.

Subscribed and sworn to Susan Bachert, Secretary before me this 12th day of August.

30

JUNE 2022

Lori S. Young Notary Public County of Resident, LaPorte My commission expires October 2023.

5 Reasons

1

2